An Tairseach

General Outline of the Course

On arrival the participants will be facilitated in making the transition to this sabbatical time and place. This will be followed by a concentrated module on cosmology where we will look at different ways that we humans have understood our world. We will study the New Story using in particular the works of Thomas Berry and Brian Swimme. This module is foundational for all further modules because a shift in our understanding of our world necessarily raises questions about our place in it, how we belong together, who God is and where God is encountered.

A glance at the competencies of the lecturers will give an indication of the different perspectives which will be brought to the questions in our effort to integrate the wisdom of the ages and our Christian tradition with new insights and challenges. In this course we hope to provide a good balance between lectures, discussion, private study, time for liturgy, private prayer and reflection, opportunities to be creative, time to be outside and experience nature in all its variety and moods, some hands-on activity for example art, gardening or cooking and time just to relax. On Mondays to Fridays the day will normally begin with ritual.

Daily Mass will be part of the course when a priest is available but is also available locally a short distance away . The rest of the morning will be given to presentations followed by discussion. The main meal will be at lunch time and the afternoon will be given to more reflective pursuits such as Art, Movement, Gardening, Cooking etc. The weekends will normally be free.

Participants are free to go away at weekends but it is probably not a good idea to be away every weekend since this is a precious time to avail of the resources of the Centre and enjoy one another’s company in the relaxed atmosphere of sabbatical time. There will be one or two long week-ends during the course to coincide with public holidays (more details nearer the time).

Cost

The fee €4200 covers classes, library and internet facilities, a private room, part board (main meal five days a week, tea/coffee between class sessions), laundry facilities. Students are responsible for their own breakfast and evening meals and also weekend meals. Self- catering facilities are available. The Centre is within a few minutes walk from the town.

Other Costs

Participants would need to budget for telephone, books, stationery, medical, travel and personal needs.

Transport

There is a good bus service and less good train service to and from Dublin and also to Rosslare Harbour . People arriving in Dublin by plane can get the Airport Bus direct to Wicklow.